Gazebo added nice touch to the downtown area

Friday

Aug 15, 2014 at 12:01 AM

File this under the hashtag #smalltownproblems: Citizen complaints led to the removal of a popular gazebo on the town Square. Yet the seemingly minor matter points to the bigger issue of what type of environment Lexington wants to project.

File this under the hashtag #smalltownproblems: Citizen complaints led to the removal of a popular gazebo on the town Square. Yet the seemingly minor matter points to the bigger issue of what type of environment Lexington wants to project.The gazebo typically appeared in the quadrant across from the Old Davidson County Court House during Uptown Lexington's Christmas Open House. It provided a picturesque spot for photos and holiday scenes. But it disappeared shortly after the holiday season ended. However, it remained in place this year; Uptown Lexington has experienced three directors in the past year and a half and board changes, so it simply fell through the cracks to have it taken away after Christmas.Many people enjoyed the gazebo, and motorists or pedestrians passing through the center of town often saw folks sitting there at all hours of the day. But some complained that the gazebo sitters were making inappropriate comments or leaving trash. So the city took action, and Bunce Buildings, which donated the gazebo's use, removed it this week. The action didn't sit well with those who liked to relax in the structure.Lexington certainly wants to have an inviting downtown. Business owners and city leaders want shoppers and diners to feel comfortable in the downtown area. They want them to enjoy amenities such as the free public Wi-Fi. But they also want them to see an attractive downtown area where people feel welcome and not threatened or put upon.The Square sits about two blocks from the location of the city's homeless shelter. Although no one said it publicly, the perception was many of those using the shelter were homeless. So city leaders need to also be sensitive to that population. They, too, have rights and needs, including adequate shelter when they don't have a home or business to escape the heat or rain.Moving forward, it seems a balance can be found that would allow some attractive structures like the gazebo to be found in the downtown area. Signs can remind those who use it on a regular basis to dispose of litter properly, and nearby trash receptacles can make that simple. Police officers patrolling the downtown area can make sure the rules are followed, and even merchants can help to make sure the structures are viewed as a positive part of downtown.Many good things are happening in downtown Lexington. City leaders continue to work hard to attract shoppers, tourists and diners. The reopening of the Old Davidson County Court House will take place next month, providing another reason to celebrate the downtown area. With school starting Aug. 25, the holiday season will be upon us in no time, too. So when the gazebo returns as the weather grows colder, perhaps it can come with a prolonged stay without the problems that surfaced this time.